Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs aren’t just famous for their golden beaches and sparkling ocean views – they’re also home to some of Australia’s most fascinating marine visitors: seals! These playful, whiskery creatures can sometimes be seen resting on the rocks or gliding through the waves, and spotting one is always a thrill for kids and adults alike.
Better yet, seal-spotting makes for a fantastic school holiday activity – it’s free, outdoors, educational, and full of excitement for the whole family. Pack some snacks, grab the binoculars, and set off on your very own coastal adventure.
Here are seven of the best places where you might be lucky enough to see a seal:
1. Clovelly Bay
Clovelly’s calm waters are perfect for snorkelling, but keep your eyes peeled on the rocks too. Seals sometimes pop by to bask in the sun, making it a magical surprise for families enjoying a swim.
2. Maroubra Beach Headlands
The rocky outcrops around Maroubra’s headlands are a favourite resting spot for seals. Take a coastal walk with the kids and bring your binoculars – you might just spot one stretched out in the sun.
3. Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk
This world-famous walk isn’t just about the views. Along the cliffs between Bondi and Bronte, seals are occasionally seen swimming close to the rocks. It’s a great excuse to slow down and point out some wildlife to the little ones.
4. Malabar Headland
Malabar Headland National Park is known for its birdlife and sweeping ocean views, but seals are sometimes spotted resting on the rocky ledges below. A family walk here can turn into a seal-spotting adventure.
5. Watsons Bay & South Head
The entrance to Sydney Harbour is a popular spot for marine life. From the clifftops at South Head or while strolling around Watsons Bay, keep a lookout – a seal might be bobbing in the water or lounging nearby.
6. Sydney Opera House & Royal Botanic Gardens
Believe it or not, seals have been spotted right in the heart of the city! Around the Opera House forecourt and the seawalls of the Royal Botanic Gardens, you might catch one sunning itself or playing in the water. It’s a wonderful reminder of how wild Sydney Harbour can be.
7. Fort Denison & Garden Island
Seals are occasionally seen hauled out on the rocky edges of Fort Denison or resting around Garden Island. A harbour ferry ride can double as a seal-spotting adventure for families looking for something different.
🦭 Seal Safety – Watch from a Distance
While seeing a seal is exciting, remember they are wild animals and need their space. Always follow the official approach distances:
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Stay 10m away in the water (80m if it’s a pup).
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Stay 40m away on land (80m if it’s a pup).
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Drones must stay 100m away.
👉 Never feed seals and always keep dogs on a leash near the coast.
👉 more tips on www.environment.nsw.gov.au
So next time the kids are on school holidays, head out exploring Sydney Harbour or the Eastern Suburbs coastline. With a little patience (and some binoculars), you just might spot a seal enjoying our beautiful shores!
